Monday’s news briefing – Prince Andrew’s Chinese spy links, local government shake-up, calls for Archbishop of York to resign, United beat City in derby 

News Briefing

MPs are amongst those calling for the alleged Chinese spy – with close links to Prince Andrew – to be publicly named for security reasons. MPs are threatening to name the man as allegations raise “calls for caution.” Shadow home secretary Chris Philp and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage are amongst those calling for the alleged spy to be named.

It’s plunged the royals – and Andrew – into deeper crisis and amid another year of royal scandal, the firm is hoping Andrew steps out of the public eye this Christmas.

District councils could be abolished and more elected mayors introduced across England under new plans for a major redesign of local government. Ministers are set to publish a paper on Monday outlining plans for mergers in areas where there are currently two tiers of local authority – smaller district and larger county councils – in a bid to streamline services.

The government has approved the sale of the Royal Mail’s parent company to a Czech billionaire. The £3.6bn takeover by Daniel Kretinsky’s EP Group has been given the go-ahead after agreeing “legally binding” undertakings.

UK weather today 16/12/2024

News Briefing

Rain, some heavy will affect the north and west of Scotland, although Shetland should see bright spells and showers. Elsewhere, mostly dry with skies brightening to give some sunny spells. Mild for most, though brisk winds, especially in the north.Tonight: Rain will continue to affect northern and western Scotland, and perhaps Northern Ireland for a time. Mostly dry elsewhere with clear spells, though becoming largely cloudy. Mild and breezy.